In this final episode of our mini-series, Stu and I answer a couple of rapid-fire listener questions to wrap things up. We chat about how to prepare for gigs both physically and mentally — from nailing your songs to managing those pre-show nerves — and dive into what skills beyond music every function musician should build, like marketing, budgeting, and investing in your own learning.

Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians

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www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide

@thefulltimefunctionmusician

feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk

@infocusrecordingco

In this mini episode, Stu and I tackle two listener questions: How do I find my unique selling point as a function musician? and How can I get more local bookings?

We talk about finding your niche by trying things out, following your music taste, and leaning into what you love. We also share some practical marketing tips—like separating out different projects, building local relationships, and even booking your own shows when venues aren't biting.

Whether you're unsure how to position yourself or you're struggling to get gigs close to home, this episode has a bunch of ideas to help you get clear and take action.

Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians

Get Your Free Guide Here -

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide

@thefulltimefunctionmusician

feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk

@infocusrecordingco

In this mini episode, Stu and I answer another listener question: What advice would you give to someone about to go full-time as a function musician?

Stu recently made the leap himself, so we dig into what that transition really looks like—from gigging at open mics and busking in the streets to building confidence and getting those first paid bookings. We also talk about the financial side: how to prepare, why a part-time job can actually be a smart move, and what it means to "cut your teeth" as a performer.

If you’re thinking about going full-time, or you’re right on the edge, this one’s for you.

Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians

Get Your Free Guide Here -

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide

@thefulltimefunctionmusician

feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk

@infocusrecordingco

In this mini episode, we answer another listener question: Is social media actually necessary for function musicians?

We explore whether you can build a successful career without constantly posting on Instagram, and how some musicians manage to stay fully booked with barely any online presence. We talk about using social media as a portfolio, the power of networking, and how to strike the right balance between online content and real-world connections.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by content creation—or wondering if it's even worth it—this episode will help you decide where to put your energy.

Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians

Get Your Free Guide Here -

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide

@thefulltimefunctionmusician

feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk

@infocusrecordingco

In this episode, We answer another great listener question about low fees and whether agencies are driving down standards in the function music world. I share my own experience working with agencies and explain why I still think they’re a valuable part of the ecosystem—especially when you’re just getting started. We talk about how to strike the right balance between agency gigs and direct bookings, why it's important to be confident in your rate, and how to use the time saved by agencies to invest in building your brand. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should rely on agents or go fully independent, this one’s for you.

Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians

Get Your Free Guide Here -

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide

@thefulltimefunctionmusician

feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk

@infocusrecordingco

In this episode, we tackle a question from listener Buscarella: "It feels like the market is super saturated with singers—how do I stand out?" We dive into the importance of personal branding, authenticity, and finding your niche as a function musician. From refining your image and social media presence to developing a strong USP and embracing what makes you different, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world examples to help you rise above the noise. Whether you’re indie-folk with a stompbox or a sleek Sinatra-style crooner, the key is being unapologetically you.

Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians

Get Your Free Guide Here -

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide

@thefulltimefunctionmusician

feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk

@infocusrecordingco

In this episode, we tackle two key questions from the podcast community:

1. How do you successfully collect Google reviews?

2. How do you deal with clients ghosting you after inquiring?

We share practical, real-world tips on how to ask for reviews in a way that feels natural and effective – whether it’s using QR codes at gigs, follow-up emails, or laminated table cards.

We also dive deep into handling client ghosting, discussing follow-up email strategies, how long to wait before chasing, and how to protect your time with things like deposit policies, quote expiry dates, and lead qualification tactics.

If you've ever struggled with getting testimonials or felt frustrated when potential clients disappear, this episode is full of actionable advice you can start using right away.

Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians

Get Your Free Guide Here -

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide

@thefulltimefunctionmusician

feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk

@infocusrecordingco

In this mini episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, we dive into a topic many self-employed musicians tend to overlook—retirement planning. We explore why pensions are so important for freelancers and how to start preparing now, even if money is tight. From Stocks & Shares ISAs to Lifetime ISAs and SIPPs, we share our personal approaches to saving for the future. We also break down simple strategies, recommend useful podcasts and books, and explain how small financial habits can lead to big long-term gains through the power of compound interest. Whether you're in your 20s or 40s, this episode is a must-listen for any musician looking to build lasting financial security.

Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians

Get Your Free Guide Here -

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide

@thefulltimefunctionmusician

feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk

www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk

@infocusrecordingco